General Information

The Redwood Library and Athenæum is the oldest lending library in America, and the oldest library building in continuous use in the country. Founded in 1747 by forty-six proprietors upon the principle of "having nothing in view but the good of mankind," its mission continues over 250 years later.

America's first true architect, Peter Harrison, designed and oversaw the construction of the library building. Completed in 1750, it was not only the first public classical building, but also the first community library building in the Colonies.

Established over 100 years before the first tax supported library, the Redwood is an independent subscription library. It is supported by membership fees, endowments, and gifts. In the true spirit of an athenæum, books, lectures, exhibitions, displays of fine and decorative arts, performances, seminars, and other educational activities are offered for both members' and the public's enjoyment.

Today, the Redwood cares for more than 160,000 volumes, archives and manuscripts as well as an important collection of fine and decorative arts.

Redwood's museum collections include National Historic Landmark structures, a fine collection of 17th- to 18th-century portraiture, sculpture, furniture, and other items of the decorative arts.

The Library is open without charge to qualified scholars, researchers, and those making occasional use of the collections.

Hours of Operation

The Redwood Library is open Monday - Saturday from 9:30am - 5:30 pm. On Thursdays, we stay open until 8:00 pm. Sunday hours are 1:00 - 5:00 PM.

The Redwood Library and Athenæum is an Official Project of
Save America's Treasures.